Caritas Philippines has announced its full support for the 10Million Solar Rooftops Challenge, which aligns with the Church’s mission to care for creation and promote sustainable development.
This ambitious project has garnered strong endorsements from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and the 41st National Social Action General Assembly (NASAGA), reflecting the Church’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The 10Million Solar Rooftops Challenge aims to install solar panels on household rooftops nationwide, significantly reducing carbon emissions and fostering a greener, more sustainable future. Caritas Philippines believes this initiative is a crucial step towards achieving the goals of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment, which calls for swift and unified action to protect our planet.
The NASAGA’s unanimous approval of the resolution emphasizing the critical importance of transitioning to renewable energy to mitigate climate change reinforces the urgency of our collective action. “We echo this call and urge all dioceses to lead the way in embracing renewable energy, while also engaging more of the Philippine government to enact and enforce a supportive energy policy landscape.”
Recognizing the Philippines’ abundant solar potential and the supportive policy landscape, Caritas Philippines believes the 10 Million Solar Rooftops Challenge is a feasible and impactful goal. The initiative aims to significantly contribute to the nation’s renewable energy targets, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and empower communities to become more climate resilient by fostering widespread adoption of solar rooftop systems.
As part of their commitment to the challenge, the CBCP and Caritas Philippines will install solar panels in off-grid communities, ensuring that even the most remote areas benefit from renewable energy. Additionally, Caritas Philippines will continue its transition to renewable energy to set an example and inspire other organizations to follow suit.
“We implore all Filipinos, especially parishes and church-based organizations, to actively participate in this challenge by investing in solar power and advocating for its benefits within their communities. Together, we can forge a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for all.”